Infection Control · single question
What precautions are used for X-ray sensors in HIV patients?
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Correct answer: A. Single barrier + double wipe disinfection
Single barrier + double wipe (A) for digital X-ray sensors. Standard protocol for semi-critical items that cannot be heat sterilized (digital sensors):
1. Single barrier: plastic sensor cover/sleeve for each patient.
2. After removing the barrier: double wipe with EPA-registered intermediate-level disinfectant (using two separate wipes — first wipe removes debris/contamination, second wipe maintains disinfectant contact time).
• This protocol applies to ALL patients — infection control uses standard precautions for everyone regardless of HIV or other known diagnoses.
• HIV patients do NOT require special/additional precautions beyond standard precautions.
• Digital sensors CANNOT be autoclaved (heat damages electronics) — hence barrier + wipe protocol.
• PSP (phosphor storage plate) sensors may be able to undergo limited disinfection per manufacturer guidelines.
1. Single barrier: plastic sensor cover/sleeve for each patient.
2. After removing the barrier: double wipe with EPA-registered intermediate-level disinfectant (using two separate wipes — first wipe removes debris/contamination, second wipe maintains disinfectant contact time).
• This protocol applies to ALL patients — infection control uses standard precautions for everyone regardless of HIV or other known diagnoses.
• HIV patients do NOT require special/additional precautions beyond standard precautions.
• Digital sensors CANNOT be autoclaved (heat damages electronics) — hence barrier + wipe protocol.
• PSP (phosphor storage plate) sensors may be able to undergo limited disinfection per manufacturer guidelines.
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